To enhance my 2016/17 Premier League projection I’m reviewing factors that may impact each team’s strength compared with last season, as explained here. Next up Spurs.

Last Season

Tottenhams’s underlying numbers last season were truly spectacular, leading the league  for shots on target and (fewest) shots on target conceded. Only Manchester City scored more and Manchester United conceded fewer.There might be an issue with shot conversion (third worst) although this may be a result of the type of shots that Spurs take (particularity Harry Kane).

Player Turnover

To illustrate the relative strengths of key players joining and leaving, the numbers below compare defensive, passing and attacking strength against the average premier league player in 2015/16 (0% means at the same level as the average premier league player, greater than 0% is better and less than 0% is worse). Defensive assessment is the sum of defensive actions (tackles, interceptions, clearances and blocks). Passing is number of completed passes, and attacking strength is goals plus assists (all measured per match). This isn’t a robust statistical analysis, and can be skewed due to acquisition from a weaker league or lack of minutes played – but the purpose is to simply indicate the comparative strength of incoming and outgoing players.

Spurs have kept there successful squad together. The two major signings should add depth to areas of the team that are currently strong, but over-reliant on key individuals.

European Competition

Yes Champions League. Last season Europa League. Tottenham’s Europa league commitment probably did affect their Premier League form. Champions League this season will also be a distraction.

Management 

No

Overall assessment

Little change

06/08/2016